Camouflage test vehicles from the German automaker are a common sight on the Nurburgring, but we haven’t seen much of the Audi RS Q6 E-Tron. High-performance EVs have recently been spotted no on the track, but rather outside. It’s not as cool as capturing a prototype swerving through a bend, but our photographers were able to get closer to get clearer, more detailed images beyond the track walls.
That’s exactly what we have here. This test vehicle still wears the same body-hugging camouflage bandage seen in the previous spy photo, which just happens to be mounted on the ‘Ring, not the outside. At first glance, one might think this is a standard Q6 E-Tron as it rides on a set of silver wheels. Previous sightings saw the prototype with black wheels, but the massive brakes with red calipers suggest this is something more. The track also suggests more power, and the RS model will have a more aggressive front fascia with prominent corner vents. Such ventilation is clearly visible in the photo below.
The split-light design associated with the electric E-Tron model is also easy to spot, camouflage aside. What is less clear is the grille, or rather, the grille lines. The familiar Audi shape is there if you look closely, although it’s sturdy as there’s no combustion engine to power it. At the rear, we expect the RS Q6 E-Tron to look like a standard Audi Q-series crossover, albeit without the exhaust pipes.
Underpinning the Q6 BEV will be the premium platform electric (PPE) modular architecture. It’s the same setup you’ll find under the electric Porsche Macan and as such, it should pack the right performance. We know the Macan EV will produce over 600 horsepower (447 kilowatts) and there’s no reason to believe the Q6 E-Tron RS won’t match that output. Firmer suspension, stickier tires and a bulky battery pack should also be on the cards. After all, this is an RS model.
When will it arrive? Our first sighting of the E-Tron RS Q6 will be in March 2022, so we should be in the later stages of testing at this point. We’re expecting something from Audi in the first half of 2023. In the meantime, check out the Rambling About Cars podcast for more performance EV news and other automotive content, available below.
